It was a TV documentary about improving your health that inspired a group of residents to start the process of setting up a table tennis group back in 2016. This is because the findings of the documentary research showed that the social aspect of the sport, the hand-to-eye co-ordination needed and the rapid rise of the heart beat make table tennis the most effective activity for good heart health and the prevention of dementia in the over 50s.

To start the group, the residents contacted one of the trustees of the Community Hall, who was very helpful. Very soon after, two second-hand tables were purchased and a regular slot in the Hall booked. Two years on, we have three brand new table tennis tables and two sessions a week attended by a vibrant group of people of all ages; some really good players and others just learning with the support of the rest of the group. 

If you’d like to give it a go, you can play on Tuesdays from 3–5pm and Fridays from 11am–1pm. Each session costs just £2, and it’s all very relaxed. There’s lots of laughter and you can come for all or part of the session. Pop in and give it a try!

To contact the Hall trustees, email trustees@fairfieldcommunityhall.co.uk.